Guggenheim Museum

Even before stepping inside, the modern, sleek, rounded façade of the Guggenheim lets you know this isn't any ordinary art museum. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the greatest American architects of all time, the Guggenheim Museum opened its doors on Oct. 21, 1959. Since then, it has been a mecca for art enthusiasts across the world, showcasing some of the finest contemporary artwork ever produced.

A little bit of history: Wright was first called upon to construct this "temple of spirit" in 1943 to house the Museum of Non-Objective Painting. But because of modifications to Wright's design (there were a total of 749 drawings for six separate plans), rising costs of building materials, the availability of additional property, and the death of the museum's benefactor, Solomon R. Guggenheim in 1949, the project was postponed 16 years. Workers finally broke ground in 1956, and the museum was renamed Guggenheim to honor the great benefactor. Once it opened three years later, it reflected Guggenheim's vision as a showcase for exquisite abstract, non-objective artwork. Since then, it has expanded to include work from futurism, impressionism, post-impressionism, pop art, symbolism, surrealism, and expressionism movements, to name a few.

The exhibitions are as magnificent as the museum's architectural design. Two collections which are currently on display are the Kandinsky and Expressionist Painting Before World War I, and the Thannhauser Collection. Also in the museum are approximately 600 artworks that were a gift from Guggenheim himself to the Guggenheim Foundation. Guggenheim offers daily tours of the galleries led by experienced guides to help you better appreciate the artwork.

Among current exhibits is one standout titled Frank Lloyd Wright: From Within Outward will close Aug. 23, 2009, but for now, celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Guggenheim's opening and allows you to see 200 of the mastermind's original drawings, as well as models and digital animations. Wright may have died six months before the opening of the museum, but this exhibit lets his architectural legacy live on.

But, there's a lot more at the museum than just awe-inspiring collections and exhibits. At the Guggenheim, you're able to attend lectures by artists and critics, as well as watch performances and film screenings. And if you're an adult or teenager, take advantage of the many visual, performing and literary art classes offered at the Slacker Center for Arts Education. The studio art, computer and multimedia labs allow for a unique, interactive learning experience. The 8,200-square-foot educational facility is located beneath the museum's famous rotunda.

Don't forget to visit the museum store before you leave so you can buy yourself (or a loved one) a nice souvenir. The Guggenheim Museum store contains books based on its collections, apparel, posters and other accessories that will help you remember your visit.

To see the most up-to-date list of artwork currently on display, check out the museum's website below. Since most exhibitions last only a few months, the Guggenheim website will help you better plan your trip. The website also contains other pertinent information, such as a calendar of events and floor plans.

- Andrew Skwarek